Prevalence and Characteristics of Eye Diseases in Keerom District: The First Report from Easternmost Indonesia without Ophthalmology Facilities

Abstract

Purpose: Prevalence estimation of eye diseases in a given area is essential to plan eye care services. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of eye disease among the Keerom residents as an initial step in starting eye care provisions in easternmost Papua, Indonesia, where ophthalmology facilities are currently absent. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Keerom District, easternmost Papua, Indonesia, in August 2023. Data were collected using total sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eye examination was done using an ophthalmoscope. All data were coded, entered, and analyzed using SPSS version 24. Results: A total of 1,035 patients were included in this study. Mean age was 48.24±13.00 years old (range 3-82 years old), of which females accounted for 62.3%. The most prevalent eye disease was cataract (52.6%), which predominantly incipient cataract (20.9%). The second and third most prevalent were pterygium (6.7%) and refractive error (4.2%). Patients who have cataract and pterygium concurrently account for 4.3%. Other diseases (2.6%) were found, such as leucoma, retinopathy, and ocular trauma. Conclusions: This report showed a need to establish and enhance eye care services, conduct community campaigns to raise awareness, and encourage proactive eye services-seeking behavior among the Keerom population.